Music CD Condition Guide and Information

There are 2 grading systems used now in the UK and around the world, they are Record Collector UK Grading guide and Goldmine US Grading guide.

Although there are arguments with both guides on the whole they both work well, due to the excess of online sales now the majority go with the Goldmine guide.

How the guide works.

CD Grading (usually the play side which has no text)

MINT – This means the cd is brand new or likely unplayed, with all stickers or extras intact (if issued with them)
NM – Near Mint means the cd is in near perfect condition, it can show handling marks maybe a light fingerprint, but no scratches.
VG+ – Very Good Plus means that the cd will have evidence of careful use, it will show some minor light surface marks but nothing deep or affecting the play.

VG – Very Good means that the cd has been well used and not particularly looked after, in fact not very good would be a better name? this is the most common grade for most used cd’s especially when used in cars, this will display marks and scratches to the disc, although it should play without problem.

Lower gradings ‘Fair’ and ‘Poor’ are also used but these are so bad we won’t stock something that you cannot even play.

Insert / Booklet Grades (usually excludes the case)

MINT – This means any paperwork is brand new or like new

NM – Near Mint means the paperwork is in near perfect condition, it can show handling marks maybe a light fingerprint, but no damage.

VG+ – Very Good Plus means that the booklet etc will have evidence of normal use, it will show some creasing folding scuffs or blemishes.

VG – Very Good means that the inserts / paperwork have been well used and not particularly looked after, in fact not very good would be a better name? this is the most common grade for CDs bought from boot sales and charity shops, they will have damage, tears and may not be complete.

Lower gradings ‘Fair’ and ‘Poor’ are also used but these are so bad we won’t stock something that you cannot even play.